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What is fear of flying? More than physical safety,
it is also emotional safety. Fear, panic, and claustrophobia can develop when not in control. SOAR stops these feelings automatically.

As both a licensed therapist and airline captain, I've specialized in the treatment of fear of flying for thirty years, and developed methods that are far more effective in treating fear of flying than those found anywhere else.

It has been years since I've worked with an anxious or even terrified flier I could not help. I'm sure I can help you overcome your fear of flying, too.

It is possible to fly without fear, and I had not thought I would be able to do this after 35 years...

Forum

Browse thousands of messages posted on our fear of flying forum by people dealing with anything from mild flight anxiety to severe fear of flying. We invite you to leave messages as you begin to conquer your fear of flying.

Fear Of Flying Courses - Historical Perspective

Fear of flying courses originated at Pan Am and USAir in 1975. The information on aviation was excellent. But, the methods to control feelings did not work.
At the end of the course, those who flew as a group, accompanied by a constantly reassuring pilot, were counted in the course’s “success rate” even if they experienced panic. Later, when trying to fly without their group or the pilot, most were no better off.

A follow-up study showed the percentage able to fly six months later was the same as prior to the course.
Similar courses are offered today by airlines, pilots, and therapists. As before, success is greatly exaggerated. Though research shows breathing exercises are useless, participants are led to believe they will control fear and panic.

Anxious fliers who rely on useless techniques are set up for failure, after which they believe nothing will work.
As a volunteer at the Pan Am course, Captain Bunn recognized the need for effective control of in-flight fear, panic, and claustrophobia. To develop effective methods, he founded SOAR, became a licensed therapist, and spent years in study and research. His work has opened up the whole world to 10,000 formerly anxious fliers. Elsewhere, mental health professionals and other courses continue to offer the outdated and ineffective methods developed in the 1970s.

Ten Fear of Flying Facts

1. One person in three has some degree of fear of flying.
2. One person in six is unable to fly due to fear of flying.
3. The average age at which this fear develops is twenty-seven.
4. Anticipatory anxiety before flying is often worse than feelings when flying.
5. For many fearful fliers, the most difficult part of the flight is cruise.
6. Cruise is difficult because of turbulence and feeling up high.
7. The term fear of flying is in common usage due to the title of a novel.
8. Fear of flying may include claustrophobia and fear of in-flight panic.
9. Landing is often a relief because the emotional ordeal is almost over.
10. Whatever fear of flying means to you, SOAR can relieve the problem.

Lisa Hauptner

MS, LMHC, CASAC

Lisa Hauptner is Vice President & Director of SOAR, Inc. Lisa overcame her own fear of flying after completing the SOAR program. She was so confident in its life-changing approach, she joined SOAR in helping others conquer fear of flying. Lisa is also a licensed therapist & certified addictions counselor.